Molting Rouens

[sbolerjack]

So last year I purchased Rouens from Tractor Supply/Hoover's Hatchery. When they reached adulthood, they would occasionally fly. After doing some research, obviously they have been crossed with mallards. My drakes have gone through the molting stage and have lost their vivid colors. Now they are almost the color of my females. Recently I purchased more Rouens of about the same age. These are much larger. The two new drakes that I have are still beautifully colored. They should have already gone through the molting stage as well, correct? Very strange. Has anyone else experienced this?

 

[sourland]

It sounds as if they have already molted into their nuptial plumage.